Tractor-Trailer Cruise Control Using Propulsion Torque Against Swing Out
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cruise control systems struggle to effectively prevent swing out conditions in vehicles with tractor and trailer units, particularly during braking on low-friction surfaces, leading to potential rollover and collision risks.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that uses processing circuitry to detect a swing out condition by monitoring relative rotation between the tractor and trailer units, applying a temporary propulsion torque to the tractor wheels to deviate from the demanded cruise control speed, and adjusting this torque based on various parameters such as road friction, oncoming traffic, and road curvature to prevent further rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the braking action of the foundation brakes on the trailer unit is reduced to avoid swing out, then the swing out condition is mitigated, but the stopping distance increases and braking performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of applying braking force to stop the vehicle (conventional approach), the system applies propulsion torque in the opposite direction to counteract the swing out condition. The actuator generates forward force on the tractor unit wheels, creating a counteracting moment that stabilizes the trailer without requiring reduced braking on the trailer brakes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the torque parameter by switching from braking mode to propulsion mode. The actuator can operate in different modes (braking, coasting, propulsion) and adjusts the torque magnitude and direction based on the detected swing out condition, thereby preventing swing out while maintaining effective braking performance.
2Reliability
If the actuator applies propulsion torque to counteract swing out, then trailer stability is improved, but the vehicle speed deviates from the demanded cruise control speed
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies propulsion torque periodically or temporarily only when swing out conditions are detected, rather than continuously. The control system monitors the trailer position and activation state, and applies corrective torque only during critical moments, allowing the vehicle to return to the demanded cruise control speed once the swing out condition is resolved.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the torque application based on real-time conditions. The actuator torque is modulated according to the detected swing out severity, trailer position, and road conditions, allowing the system to provide just enough corrective force to stabilize the trailer while minimizing deviation from the desired cruise control speed.
3Reliability
If the actuator operates in propulsion mode to prevent swing out, then trailer control is maintained, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion mode is activated only periodically when swing out conditions are detected, rather than continuously. The system monitors conditions such as trailer position, road friction, and curve detection, and activates the actuator only when necessary, thereby reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining trailer control when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies corrective torque locally and selectively based on the specific swing out condition. Rather than continuous full-power propulsion, the actuator provides targeted torque assistance only in the direction and magnitude needed to counteract the detected swing out, optimizing energy usage while maintaining control.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The method effectively inhibits trailer swing out, reducing the risk of rollover and collision by temporarily increasing vehicle speed only when safe to do so, thereby maintaining control and safety during hazardous conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the tractor unit comprises an actuator configured to apply a torque on at least one wheel of the tractor unit during propulsion, and to generate electric power during braking
Implementation Method 2
an actuator configured to apply a torque on at least one wheel of the tractor unit during propulsion
Data Source
AI summary
A computer implemented method of controlling a cruise control system of a vehicle comprising a tractor unit and at least one trailer unit pivotably coupled to each other, wherein the tractor unit comprises an actuator configured to apply a torque on at least one wheel of the tractor unit during propulsion, the cruise control system comprising processing circuitry operable to control operation of the actuator, the method comprising controlling, by the processing circuitry, the actuator to operate the vehicle at a demanded cruise control vehicle speed; controlling, by the processing circuitry, the actuator to apply a propulsion torque on the at least one wheel of the tractor unit for deviating from the demanded cruise control vehicle speed in response to a swing out condition in which a parameter indicative of a relative rotation between the tractor unit and the at least one trailer unit exceeds a predetermined threshold limit.